Publication

Abstract : The diaphyseo epiphyseal union is universally presentin all individuals and therefore may be taken as a legallyacceptable indicator of age.The assessment of age for legalpurpose is of considerable importance for administrationof justice. The universally accepted methods of estimationof age in living person are 1) physical development andsecondary sexual characteristics 2) clinical examinationof teeth for eruption of teeth and calcification of root ofthird molar by radiological examination 3) radiologicalexamination of diaphyseo epiphyseal union of long bones.The union of diaphyseo epiphyseal of 1 st metacarpal hasbeen studied in 120 candidates (60 males and 60 females).The results were also compared with union of lower endof radius and ulna in these 120 candidates.The completediaphyseo epiphyseal union at the base of Metacarpalwas observed in the age group of 16 – 17 years in both thesexes. The complete diaphyseo epiphyseal union at thelower end of radius and Ulna was observed in the agegroup of 18 – 19 years in both the sexes.